RetroCalc: Nostalgic Mathematic Gold

Even if you are a level 60 mathlete, eventually you will need a calculator on your iPad. Instead of performing a perfunctory search in the App Store and downloading the first humdrum numbers iPad app you come across, do it like a Boy Scout, be prepared. Download the RetroCalc app for iPad from futuremedia and take a stand against boring calculator apps everywhere.

Features:

While the word “retro” got me all twitterpated in a hurry, I was determined to withhold my iPad app review nod of approval until I knew if RetroCalc had the juice. What good is a calculator app if it doesn’t crunch the numbers? Thankfully, all the functions of a classic calculator were there, and they were dressed to impress.

RetroCalc iPad app has 12 different classic calculator layouts uploaded. I’m talking about anything from a Fujita Sendai BC1010 to a Texas Instruments 1250. A simple flick of the finger will guide you through your calculator skin options. While each calculator has a different layout and feel, most of the options are standard. In addition to basic addition, subtraction, division and multiplication, these calcs have true order of operations, memory functionality, 17-digit scientific notation, calculate square roots with ease and a lot more.

Customization:

RetroCalc

Like any body, I’m a pretty big fan of getting my way. In addition to letting me select the old school calculator of my dreams, RetroCalc lets me select from several different backgrounds as well. Simply touch a finger to the background and flick to either side to view your options. Tap the settings icon in the upper right-hand corner to randomize the calculator face and background. The RetroCalc iPad app functions perfectly in landscape or portrait orientation. It even assigns fun audio feedback to calculator buttons that differ for each layout and can be changed under settings.

Did I spend 10 minutes playing dress up with a calculator app? You bet I did. Does my customized RetroCalc rock? Oh yeah it does. My only complaint is that it will not allow me to use a picture from my own photo gallery.

Retro Factor:

As a child of the 80s, I reserve an eternal part of my heart for a good come back tour. RetroCalc for iPad’s delightful selection of 70s and 80s calculator layouts is a nostalgic gem. They get extra points for bringing these classic designs alive in high quality 3D graphics, and for reminding me of middle school math class. A little attention to detail brings RetroCalc in to a class of its own for iPad calculator apps.

Value:

There are a lot of boring calculator apps in the App Store that might cost a little less. They won’t bring you half the joy that RetroCalc does. Paying $.99 for an app that makes routine tasks like adding up a budget fun is absolutely worth the investment.

RetroCalc

RetroCalc iPad app requires iOS 3.2 or later and is compatible with iPad. A small expedite fee was paid by the developer to speed up the publication of this review.